Fundamental Concepts that underpin the Educational Philosophy at Trefoil Montessori Farm School
It’ s evident that the way we live at present is not sustainable.
Change is required.
We are looking to provide an educational platform that researches the important elements of what is required for the future.
Download pdf version of the prospectus after clicking this link….
1.We nurture the concept of Personal responsibility towards:
a. Oneself - Self respect and confidence
b. The people around us - Friends and family
c. Our Local surroundings – School/ home/ Community
d. The Planet that we live on – The natural worlds.
2. We have created a fine balance between freedom to choose ones own work, structure and spontaneity.
3. We are an Eco school and use 100% green energy. Working towards being carbon neutral.
4. We are developing a curriculum in Sustainable Development and Living.
To include:
A broad understanding of building design
a. Traditional building methods.
b. Environmental performance focussed on materials.
c. Water consumption.
d. Orientation. – Solar gain and solar shading.
e. Low / High impact - Funky, Vernacular or standard.
Food Production
f. Traditional farming methods.
g. Kitchen Gardening.
h. Herbalism – Food and health.
i. Organic farming.
Land Husbandry skills.
j. Forestry skills.
k. Wild flower meadow maintenance.
l. Traditional crafts.
m. Carpentry
Waste
n. Recycling.
o. Re-using.
p. Purchasing.
Monetary Systems
q. History of money – 5th Great lesson.
Energy Systems
r. Wind Power
s. Solar Power
t. Geothermal energy
u. Water power
v. Wave and tidal power
5. In all areas of Learning there is a cross curricular hands on holistic approach.
So that things are not seen to be on their own, but part of a whole.
For Example: Cookery is also maths, gardening sustainable living and science.
6. The discipline within the school environment comes from:
a. The use of positive language by all staff members.
b. Teaching the children what the ground rules are; using games, role play and discussions.
c. All ground rules come from the foundation of safety and respect for the individual’s freedom to work and think for themselves.
d. The children are given opportunity to air disagreements or upsets amongst themselves.
e. We use a Peace Table to resolve differences. As the children get older they can have the choice to do this with or without an adult present.
This being the case we never have disputes that are not resolved and the school environment is harmonious and inspirational to work within by all.
7. We have a strong inclusion policy, offering places to children with special educational needs where possible and balances allow.
8. We have small class sizes, with children of mixed age groups.
( Maximum of 12 in a class )
9. Providing an approach to learning that is ground breaking and child centred.
Download pdf version of the prospectus after clicking this link….
Trefoil Farm School and Home Educators Partnership
‘A special way of learning for a sustainable future’
Ashwood Farm
West Hoathly Road
East Grinstead
West Sussex
RH19 4ND
Tel: 01342 316129
Email: p.vickerman@btinternet.com
website: www.trefoilfarmschool.wordpress.com
Supported by: ‘ Friends of Trefoil Trust’
Charity No: 1113654
